Defensive selection poser for boss

Owen Coyle will make a late call on the fitness of Elliott Ward ahead of Saturday's match against Burton Albion.

The Rovers defender hasn't featured since sustaining an ankle injury on the opening day of the season and is still considered a doubt for tomorrow's match at Ewood Park.

If the experienced central defender isn't fit in time, that could mean a Rovers debut for Scott Wharton.

The 18-year-old featured regularly for the first team during pre-season, but has yet to play a senior match.

Speaking on Thursday the manager said: "Ward is still very doubtful but he might have a little chance if he trains very well on Friday.

"We've got the injuries to Elliott Bennett and Adam Henley, whilst Corry Evans is still unavailable after coming back from the Euros with an existing injury.

"But he is moving in the right direction but you have to remember that he has missed quite a bit of pre-season, so the sooner we can get him back it will be like a new player and a valuable addition to the squad.

"Obviously Shane was red-carded and will be unavailable.

"There are a couple of bumps and bruises, but the boys are chomping at the bit to go out there and win that home game.

"There's a little flexibility to change things, we'll look to make the best of that, but if we are at our maximum it will still be good enough to win the game and get up and running."

Tickets for Saturday's match against the Brewers are on open sale up until the 3pm kick-off priced from £18 for Adults, £12 Concessions and £7 for Juniors aged 17 and under.

Book now online at www.eticketing.co.uk/onerovers, or at the Roverstore, Ewood Park, or by calling the ticket office on 01254 372000.